It is the new year, and many people seek to start their new year off fresh. I am also one of those people. So, I make and renew some goals I wish to accomplish during the year every January. One of the yearly goals that I often meet in some way is wellness. Due to my Multiple Sclerosis, wellness can look different from day to day and year to year. The end goal is still the same, to take care of my body, soul, and mind the best I can.
This year I am thankful for my dear friend Amy Blackthorn’s book Blackthorn’s Botanical Wellness. The book reminded me that despite my little progress, my wellness journey is still a journey. Amy’s book was one of the best in 2022. I didn’t realize how much I needed her book until I began diving into it.
Botanical Wellness is a book made for everyone, but it is perfect for chronically ill people. As someone who is chronically ill, I am used to being told every “healthy” tip to get control or “heal” my illness. Those tips can sometimes be helpful but can be far more damaging than beneficial. Throughout Amy’s book, she talks about various ways to create a path to wellness. She reminds us our magic can not be taken away by stress, illness, or fatigue. One of my favorite quotes from her book that I have written down to remind me when I feel like hell that, I am not broken.
“Here is the thing, though: we aren’t broken. It can feel like that sometimes, even for long stretches of time while recovering from stress and worry du jour. But it just isn’t true. I won’t tell you how to feel about whatever you are dealing with but I can tell you: you aren’t broken. I’ll write you a note if you need it, but you are not broken. Even if some of those factory parts of yours aren’t exactly still under warranty, that isn’t a value judgment on you. You are still an amazing human and deserve the best life has to offer. The best life starts within, looking outward.”
One of the best books on wellness from 2022!
Amy’s book is a valid and beautiful voice for those who want to look into their wellness journey but are unsure where to begin. Amy delivers wonderful recipes, rituals, and guidance on beginning a wellness journey. She also guides you through the work of some of the limiting beliefs that may be holding you back.
Amy’s book has so much to offer for your wellness journey. I highly recommend picking up a copy for your new year journey!
